ICT Minister: No Papua New Guinean should be left behind
New Information and Communication Technology Minister Robert Naguri says every Papua New Guinean should have equal access to digital services, regardless of where they live.
Speaking at the opening of the Digital Transformation Summit 2026 in Port Moresby on Monday, Mr Naguri said digital transformation must benefit everyone, including people in rural communities, women, youth, people living with disabilities and small businesses.
"Digital transformation must benefit every Papua New Guinean. No one should be excluded because of geography, gender, disability, age or income," Mr Naguri said.
The minister said building trust, improving digital infrastructure, supporting innovation and promoting inclusion are the four priorities that will guide Papua New Guinea's digital transformation.
He said people will only use digital government services if they trust that their personal information is protected and that online systems are secure.
"Trust is the foundation upon which a successful society is built," he said.
Mr Naguri also said the government remains committed to expanding digital infrastructure so more provinces, districts and communities can connect to the digital economy.
He said reliable internet, secure data centres and stronger government digital systems are now essential for improving education, healthcare, business and public services.
"These are no longer optional investments. They are essential infrastructure," he said.
Mr Naguri encouraged government agencies, businesses, development partners and young innovators to work together to turn ideas from the summit into practical solutions that improve the lives of Papua New Guineans.